Artist aiming to raise $500 for pet charity

ARTIST Nicole McBride is parting with her precious artwork to raise money for animals at the Wide Bay animal shelter after reading an article which made her cry.

The artist expressed her disappointment at irresponsible dog owners after reading a recent article in the Observer newspaper about dogs being surrendered at shelters over Christmas.

"I owe much of my art to the inspiration animals give me and it's no secret how much I love animals," she said.

"Animals have always been important to me, to me they are family members.

"They are so loving and perceptive, far more than we give them credit for.

"When I see and hear of animals dumped at shelters because the owners are going on holidays, it breaks my heart knowing how much love the animal has given its family and how little care has been given in return."

Ms McBride is hoping to raise at least $500 to buy food, beddings and necessities for these animals by running a competition on her webpage nicolemcbride.com.au.

"I'd like to encourage people to donate $5 or more to be in the running to win a colourful painting which I was going to showcase in my upcoming exhibition in January at Gatakers Artspace," she said.

"Daisy is a piece that explores colour and beauty of animals which is appropriate for this cause."

The winner will be selected at random at 5pm on December 23.

Ms McBride's love for animals is evident in her works.

At her last art exhibition, she donated 50% of the sales to various animal charities.

Visit nicolemcbride.com.au to find out how you can help raise money for the Wide Bay animal shelter.